Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A mobile device for programming an HVAC controller having a wireless interface, the HVAC controller configured to operate HVAC equipment installed at a particular site, the mobile device comprising: a touch screen display configured to display information and to permit a user to enter information; a wireless port; a controller in operative communication with the touch screen display and the wireless port, the controller of the mobile device configured to establish communication to a remote download server via the wireless port and to download an application program code from the remote download server to the mobile device; a memory for storing the application program code once downloaded; the controller of the mobile device further configured to establish a direct wireless connection, without an intervening wireless gateway, between the wireless port of the mobile device and the wireless interface of the HVAC controller; the controller of the mobile device configured to execute the application program code, which provides a predetermined sequence of two or more configuration screens on the touch screen display of the mobile device that facilitate the user in at least partially configuring the HVAC controller by setting two or more configuration parameters via the touch screen display of the mobile device, the predetermined sequence of two or more configuration screens including a configuration screen that solicits a configuration parameter pertaining to a heating system type, a configuration screen that solicits a configuration parameter pertaining to a number of heating stages, and a configuration screen that solicits a configuration parameter pertaining to a number of cooling stages for the HVAC equipment installed at the particular site; the controller of the mobile device further configured to upload the two or more configuration parameters to the HVAC controller via the direct wireless connection between the wireless port of the mobile device and the wireless interface of the HVAC controller; and wherein after the controller of the mobile device uploads the two or more configuration parameters to the HVAC controller via the direct wireless connection between the wireless port of the mobile device and the wireless interface of the HVAC controller, the mobile device is configured to drop the direct wireless connection between the wireless port of the mobile device and the wireless interface of the HVAC controller and establish communication with a remote monitoring server, and wherein the HVAC controller is configured to also establish communication with the remote monitoring server.
This invention relates to a mobile device for programming an HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) controller. The system addresses the challenge of configuring HVAC controllers in the field by providing a user-friendly, wireless method to set up and customize HVAC equipment without requiring physical access to the controller or specialized tools. The mobile device includes a touch screen display for user interaction, a wireless port for communication, and a controller that manages operations. The device is capable of downloading an application from a remote server to facilitate HVAC controller programming. Once the application is installed, the mobile device establishes a direct wireless connection to the HVAC controller, bypassing any intermediate gateways. The application guides the user through a series of configuration screens, prompting them to input key parameters such as heating system type, number of heating stages, and number of cooling stages. These parameters are then uploaded to the HVAC controller via the direct wireless link. After configuration, the mobile device disconnects from the HVAC controller and connects to a remote monitoring server, while the HVAC controller also establishes communication with the same server. This setup enables remote monitoring and management of the HVAC system. The invention simplifies HVAC controller programming by leveraging mobile technology, reducing setup time and improving accuracy.
2. The mobile device of claim 1 , wherein the mobile device comprises one of a smart phone and a tablet.
A mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet, is configured to detect and respond to environmental conditions to enhance user experience and device functionality. The device includes sensors to monitor environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and air quality, as well as user activity, such as movement or proximity to other devices. Based on the detected conditions, the device adjusts its operations, such as modifying display settings, activating or deactivating specific features, or providing alerts to the user. For example, if the device detects high humidity, it may adjust screen brightness or trigger a notification to prevent condensation. Similarly, if the device senses rapid movement, it may lock the screen or disable touch input to prevent accidental interactions. The device may also communicate with external systems, such as smart home devices or cloud services, to share environmental data or receive instructions. This adaptive functionality improves usability, energy efficiency, and device longevity by dynamically responding to real-world conditions.
3. The mobile device of claim 1 , wherein the remote download server is the same server as the remote monitoring server.
A mobile device is configured to monitor and manage its own performance by communicating with a remote monitoring server. The device includes a monitoring module that collects performance data, such as battery status, memory usage, and application behavior, and transmits this data to the remote monitoring server. The remote monitoring server analyzes the data and identifies potential issues or inefficiencies in the device's operation. Based on this analysis, the remote monitoring server generates a performance optimization profile tailored to the device. This profile includes settings, configurations, or updates designed to improve the device's performance, such as adjusting power management parameters, optimizing memory allocation, or updating software components. The mobile device also includes a remote download module that retrieves the performance optimization profile from a remote download server. The device applies the profile to modify its operation, thereby enhancing performance. In some embodiments, the remote download server and the remote monitoring server are the same server, streamlining the process by consolidating data collection, analysis, and profile delivery into a single system. This integration reduces latency and ensures that the performance optimization profile is based on the most recent and relevant data. The mobile device may periodically or on-demand request updates to the profile to maintain optimal performance over time.
4. The mobile device of claim 1 , wherein the application program code is also configured to display one or more install screens, wherein the one or more install screens include information on removing an old thermostat as part of a process of installing the HVAC controller.
This invention relates to a mobile device configured to assist with the installation of an HVAC controller, specifically addressing the challenge of guiding users through the replacement of an old thermostat. The mobile device includes an application program that provides step-by-step instructions for removing the old thermostat as part of the installation process. The application displays one or more install screens that contain detailed information on how to safely and correctly remove the old thermostat before installing the new HVAC controller. This ensures users follow proper procedures, reducing installation errors and potential damage to the system. The application may also include additional features to support the installation process, such as compatibility checks, wiring diagrams, or troubleshooting guides, to enhance the overall user experience and ensure a successful installation. The mobile device acts as a portable, interactive tool that simplifies the thermostat replacement process, making it more accessible to users with varying levels of technical expertise.
5. The mobile device of claim 1 , wherein the application program code is configured to also display one or more install screens, wherein the one or more install screens include information on wiring the HVAC controller as part of a process of installing the HVAC controller.
This invention relates to a mobile device configured to assist with the installation of an HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) controller. The mobile device includes an application program that provides installation guidance, including displaying one or more install screens. These screens contain detailed information on wiring the HVAC controller as part of the installation process. The application program is designed to guide users through the steps required to properly connect and configure the HVAC controller, ensuring correct setup and functionality. The mobile device may also include additional features such as diagnostic tools, troubleshooting guides, or compatibility checks to further assist in the installation and maintenance of the HVAC system. The invention aims to simplify the installation process by providing clear, step-by-step instructions directly on the user's mobile device, reducing errors and improving efficiency. The application may also include interactive elements, such as prompts or confirmation steps, to ensure proper execution of each installation task. This solution addresses the challenge of complex HVAC controller installations by leveraging mobile technology to deliver user-friendly, on-demand guidance.
6. The mobile device of claim 1 , wherein the predetermined sequence of two or more configuration screens further includes a configuration screen that solicits a configuration parameter pertaining to one of a fuel type, a reversing valve control type, a fan control type, and a backup heat type.
This invention relates to a mobile device configured to facilitate the setup and configuration of a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The problem addressed is the complexity and time-consuming nature of manually configuring HVAC systems, which often requires specialized knowledge and physical access to the system's control panel. The mobile device provides a streamlined, user-friendly interface to guide users through a predetermined sequence of configuration screens, allowing them to input system-specific parameters without direct interaction with the HVAC hardware. The configuration screens include prompts for various HVAC-related settings, such as fuel type (e.g., gas, electric, oil), reversing valve control type (e.g., electric, gas, mechanical), fan control type (e.g., variable speed, multi-speed, single-speed), and backup heat type (e.g., electric resistance, heat pump). These parameters are critical for proper HVAC system operation and efficiency. The mobile device ensures that users can accurately configure these settings, reducing installation errors and improving system performance. The system may also validate inputs to prevent incorrect configurations. This approach simplifies HVAC setup, making it accessible to non-experts while maintaining system reliability.
7. The mobile device of claim 1 , wherein the predetermined sequence of two or more configuration screens include a configuration screen that solicits a configuration parameter pertaining to a comfort preference of the user.
A mobile device includes a display and a processor configured to present a sequence of configuration screens to a user. The sequence includes at least two screens that guide the user through setup or customization of the device. One of these screens specifically requests a configuration parameter related to the user's comfort preference, such as adjusting display brightness, vibration intensity, or other settings that affect the user's physical interaction with the device. The processor processes the user's input for this parameter and applies it to the device's operation. The configuration screens may also include additional parameters for other device functions, such as connectivity, security, or performance settings. The system ensures that the user can easily customize the device to their liking, particularly focusing on comfort-related adjustments to enhance usability. This approach simplifies the setup process by breaking it into manageable steps, reducing user frustration and improving the overall experience. The comfort preference parameter allows the device to adapt to individual needs, such as reducing eye strain or minimizing unnecessary notifications. The processor may store these settings for future use or apply them immediately. This method ensures that the device is tailored to the user's preferences from the outset, improving satisfaction and usability.
8. The mobile device of claim 1 , wherein the predetermined sequence of two or more configuration screens includes a configuration screen instructing the user enter configuration information to configure a wireless connection between the HVAC controller and a home wireless network.
This invention relates to mobile devices configured to assist users in setting up and configuring HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) controllers. The problem addressed is the complexity of configuring HVAC controllers, particularly when establishing wireless connectivity to a home network, which often requires technical expertise. The mobile device includes a display and a processor that presents a predetermined sequence of configuration screens to guide the user through setup. The sequence includes at least one screen that prompts the user to enter configuration information necessary to establish a wireless connection between the HVAC controller and a home wireless network. This may involve entering network credentials such as SSID and password, selecting security protocols, or troubleshooting connectivity issues. The mobile device may also provide feedback or error messages to assist the user in completing the setup process successfully. The system ensures that the HVAC controller can communicate with the home network, enabling remote monitoring and control via a mobile application or other connected devices. The invention simplifies the setup process, making it more accessible to users without technical knowledge.
9. The mobile device of claim 1 , wherein communication between the HVAC controller and the mobile device over the direct wireless connection, the communication between the HVAC controller and the remote monitoring server, and the communication between the mobile device and the remote monitoring server all use a same communication protocol.
This invention relates to a mobile device for controlling and monitoring a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The system addresses the challenge of integrating multiple communication pathways between an HVAC controller, a mobile device, and a remote monitoring server while ensuring seamless and secure data exchange. The mobile device establishes a direct wireless connection with the HVAC controller, enabling real-time control and status updates. Additionally, the mobile device communicates with a remote monitoring server, which also interacts with the HVAC controller. All communications—between the mobile device and the HVAC controller, the HVAC controller and the remote server, and the mobile device and the remote server—use the same communication protocol. This unified protocol simplifies system integration, reduces compatibility issues, and enhances security by standardizing data transmission across all components. The invention ensures consistent and reliable communication, improving user experience and system efficiency.
10. An HVAC controller configured to operate HVAC equipment installed at a particular site, the HVAC controller comprising: a user interface configured to display information to be viewed by a user and to accept inputs from the user; a controller operably coupled to the user interface; an on board wireless interface operably coupled to the controller, the controller configured to establish the on board wireless interface to create a direct communication path, without an intervening wireless gateway, with a wireless mobile device for initially configuring the HVAC controller, including: for initially configuring the HVAC controller for communication with a wireless gateway by receiving network configuration information from the wireless mobile device; for specifying two or more HVAC equipment configuration parameters that identify characteristics of the HVAC equipment installed at the particular site, the two or more HVAC equipment parameters including a heating system type, a number of heating stages and a number of cooling stages; the controller configured to accept the network configuration information and the two or more HVAC equipment configuration parameters from the mobile device via the direct communication path established between the on board wireless interface and the wireless mobile device; wherein after the controller accepts the network configuration information and the two or more HVAC equipment configuration parameters from the mobile device via the direct communication path established between the on board wireless interface and the wireless mobile device, the mobile device is configured to drop the direct wireless connection between the mobile device and the HVAC controller, and establish communication with a remote monitoring server, and wherein the HVAC controller is configured to establish communication with the wireless gateway using the network configuration information received from the wireless mobile device via the direct communication path, and to establish communication with the remote monitoring server via the wireless gateway; and wherein communication over the direct wireless connection between the HVAC controller and the mobile device and the communication between the HVAC controller, the wireless gateway, and the remote monitoring server all use a same communication protocol.
An HVAC controller is designed to manage HVAC equipment at a specific installation site. The controller includes a user interface for displaying information and accepting user inputs, a processing unit connected to the interface, and an onboard wireless module linked to the processing unit. The wireless module enables direct communication with a mobile device for initial setup, bypassing any intermediate wireless gateway. During setup, the controller receives network configuration details from the mobile device, such as Wi-Fi credentials, and HVAC equipment specifications, including heating and cooling system types, stage counts, and other operational parameters. After configuration, the mobile device disconnects from the direct wireless link and connects to a remote monitoring server, while the HVAC controller uses the received network settings to connect to a wireless gateway and subsequently to the remote server. All communications—direct between the controller and mobile device, and indirect via the gateway—use the same protocol. This setup streamlines initial configuration and ensures seamless integration with remote monitoring systems.
11. The HVAC controller of claim 10 , wherein the mobile device is one of a smart phone and a tablet.
This invention relates to an HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) controller system designed to improve user control and automation of HVAC systems. The system addresses the problem of limited accessibility and flexibility in traditional HVAC controllers, which often require physical interaction with a wall-mounted thermostat or lack advanced automation features. The invention provides a solution by integrating a mobile device, such as a smartphone or tablet, into the HVAC control process. The mobile device communicates wirelessly with the HVAC controller, allowing users to remotely adjust temperature settings, schedules, and other HVAC functions. The system may also include sensors to monitor environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity, and use this data to optimize HVAC performance. The mobile device interface enables real-time adjustments, scheduling, and energy-saving modes, enhancing user convenience and energy efficiency. The integration of a mobile device ensures broader accessibility, as users can control the HVAC system from anywhere with an internet or network connection. This approach eliminates the need for physical interaction with a thermostat and provides a more intuitive and feature-rich control experience.
12. The HVAC controller of claim 10 , wherein the user interface comprises a touch screen.
An HVAC controller is designed to manage heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, addressing the need for precise control and user-friendly operation. The controller includes a user interface that allows users to input commands and adjust settings. In an advanced configuration, the user interface incorporates a touch screen, enabling intuitive interaction through direct touch inputs. This eliminates the need for physical buttons or complex remote controls, simplifying system operation. The touch screen may display system status, temperature settings, and other operational parameters, providing real-time feedback to the user. Additionally, the controller may include sensors to monitor environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity, and adjust HVAC operations automatically based on predefined settings or user inputs. The touch screen interface enhances usability by allowing users to navigate menus, select modes, and adjust settings with simple touch gestures. This design improves accessibility and reduces the likelihood of errors in system operation. The HVAC controller may also integrate with smart home systems, enabling remote control and automation through connected devices. Overall, the touch screen interface enhances the functionality and user experience of HVAC systems, making them more efficient and easier to manage.
13. The HVAC controller of claim 10 , wherein the controller is configured to display, via the user interface, a screen instructing a user that the HVAC controller is wirelessly coupled to the mobile device, and to utilize the mobile device to configure the HVAC controller.
This invention relates to HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) controllers designed to improve user interaction and configuration through wireless connectivity with mobile devices. The problem addressed is the complexity and inconvenience of manually configuring HVAC controllers, which often require physical access to the device or complex on-screen menus. The solution involves an HVAC controller that wirelessly connects to a mobile device, allowing users to configure settings remotely via the mobile device's interface. The HVAC controller includes a user interface for local interaction and a wireless communication module for connecting to a mobile device. When a successful wireless connection is established, the controller displays a screen on its user interface instructing the user to use the mobile device for configuration. This screen guides the user to transition from the local interface to the mobile device, where more intuitive and comprehensive configuration options are available. The mobile device may run a dedicated app or web interface to adjust HVAC settings, schedules, or other parameters, simplifying the setup and management process. This approach enhances user experience by reducing the need for direct interaction with the physical controller while maintaining control and flexibility.
14. The HVAC controller of claim 13 , wherein the controller is further configured to display, via the user interface, a screen instructing a user to utilize the mobile device to initially configure the HVAC controller for communication with a wireless gateway.
This invention relates to an HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) controller designed to simplify initial setup and communication with a wireless gateway. The controller includes a user interface and is configured to guide users through the setup process. During initial configuration, the controller displays a screen instructing the user to use a mobile device to establish communication with the wireless gateway. This ensures seamless integration of the HVAC controller into a smart home or building automation system. The controller may also include features such as remote monitoring, scheduling, and control of HVAC systems, enhancing energy efficiency and user convenience. The mobile device acts as an intermediary to facilitate the initial pairing process, reducing setup complexity and improving user experience. This approach eliminates the need for manual configuration, making the system more accessible to users with varying technical expertise. The invention addresses the challenge of simplifying the setup of smart HVAC controllers while ensuring reliable communication with a wireless gateway.
15. The HVAC controller of claim 10 , wherein the two or more HVAC equipment configuration parameters that identify characteristics of the HVAC equipment installed at the particular site further include one or more of a fuel type, a reversing valve control type, a fan control type, and a backup heat type.
This invention relates to HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) controllers designed to manage HVAC systems at specific installation sites. The problem addressed is the lack of precise configuration data for HVAC equipment, which can lead to inefficient operation, compatibility issues, or system malfunctions. The invention provides an HVAC controller that stores and utilizes detailed configuration parameters to accurately identify and control the installed HVAC equipment. The controller includes a memory storing two or more configuration parameters that define the characteristics of the HVAC equipment at a particular site. These parameters include the fuel type (e.g., gas, electric, oil), reversing valve control type (e.g., electric, mechanical), fan control type (e.g., variable speed, fixed speed), and backup heat type (e.g., electric resistance, heat pump). These parameters ensure the controller can properly interface with and optimize the performance of the installed HVAC system. The controller may also include a processor that processes these parameters to generate control signals for the HVAC equipment, ensuring compatibility and efficiency. This approach improves system reliability, energy efficiency, and user comfort by tailoring the controller's operation to the specific equipment installed.
16. The HVAC controller of claim 10 , wherein the HVAC controller further receives one or more comfort settings from the wireless mobile device via the direct communication path.
This invention relates to HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) controllers that communicate directly with wireless mobile devices to enhance user control and comfort. The problem addressed is the need for more flexible and responsive HVAC control, allowing users to adjust settings remotely without relying solely on a central thermostat or indirect communication methods. The HVAC controller includes a communication module that establishes a direct wireless connection with a mobile device, enabling real-time adjustments to temperature, fan speed, and other HVAC functions. The controller also receives comfort settings—such as preferred temperature ranges, humidity levels, or scheduling preferences—directly from the mobile device. These settings can be customized by the user and transmitted over the direct communication path, ensuring immediate implementation without intermediary systems. The direct connection improves responsiveness and reduces latency compared to traditional methods that rely on cloud-based or network-dependent communication. Additionally, the controller may include a user interface for local adjustments and a processing unit to manage incoming commands and settings. The system ensures seamless integration between mobile devices and HVAC systems, providing users with greater control over their indoor environment. This approach enhances energy efficiency and personal comfort by allowing precise, on-demand adjustments.
17. A computer readable medium containing program instructions for facilitating a user of a wireless mobile device in configuring a wireless HVAC controller, wherein execution of the program instructions by one or more processors of the wireless mobile device causes the wireless mobile device to carry out the steps of: providing one or more screens on a display of the wireless mobile device to accept configuration information from the user; accepting configuration parameters from the user of the wireless mobile device including two or more of a heating system type parameter, a fuel type parameter, a reversing valve control type parameter, a number of heating stages parameter, a number of cooling stages parameter, a fan control type parameter, and a backup heat type parameter; establishing a direct communication path, without an intervening wireless gateway between the wireless mobile device and the HVAC controller; transmitting the accepted configuration parameters from the wireless mobile device to the HVAC controller via the direct communication path between the wireless mobile device and the HVAC controller; and terminating the direct communication path between the wireless mobile device and the HVAC controller; wherein the accepted configuration parameters includes one or more network configuration parameters for configuring communication between the wireless HVAC controller and the wireless gateway; and wherein communication over the direct communication path between the wireless HVAC controller and the wireless mobile device and the communication between the wireless HVAC controller and the wireless gateway use a same communication protocol.
This invention relates to a system for configuring a wireless HVAC controller using a mobile device. The problem addressed is the complexity of setting up HVAC systems, which often requires technical expertise and specialized tools. The solution provides a user-friendly method for configuring an HVAC controller directly from a wireless mobile device, eliminating the need for an intermediary gateway during the initial setup. The system includes a computer-readable medium with program instructions that, when executed by a mobile device, enable the user to input configuration parameters through one or more screens on the device's display. These parameters include system-specific details such as heating system type, fuel type, reversing valve control type, number of heating and cooling stages, fan control type, and backup heat type. Additionally, network configuration parameters are included to establish communication between the HVAC controller and a wireless gateway. The mobile device establishes a direct communication path with the HVAC controller, bypassing any intermediate gateway. The configuration parameters are transmitted over this direct path, which uses the same communication protocol as the subsequent communication between the HVAC controller and the gateway. After configuration, the direct path is terminated, and the HVAC controller communicates with the gateway using the configured network settings. This approach simplifies the setup process while ensuring secure and efficient communication.
18. The computer readable medium of claim 17 , wherein the accepted configuration parameters includes one or more network configuration parameters for configuring communication between the wireless HVAC controller and the wireless gateway.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) controllers. The problem addressed is the need for secure and efficient configuration of wireless HVAC controllers to communicate with a wireless gateway, ensuring reliable data transmission and system integration. The invention provides a computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed, configure a wireless HVAC controller to accept configuration parameters, including network settings, to establish communication with a wireless gateway. These parameters may include network identifiers, encryption keys, or other settings required for secure and stable wireless communication. The system ensures that the HVAC controller can dynamically adjust its communication settings based on the received parameters, allowing seamless integration into existing wireless networks. The invention also includes methods for validating and applying these parameters to prevent unauthorized access or misconfiguration. By automating the configuration process, the system reduces manual setup errors and enhances the reliability of wireless HVAC control systems.
Unknown
October 8, 2019
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